VILLAGERS in Grassington have spoken out about their concerns its famous 1940s Weekend is becoming "excessively militaristic".

They say the atmosphere in the village during the recent weekend was at times "menacing" and "distasteful", and even claim some residents were sworn at by people in German military uniforms.

Grassington's latest, hugely popular 1940s Weekend featured re-enactors as American, German and Soviet troops, as well as replica and genuine military vehicles and artillery.

The annual event, which started in 2012, also features several dances and a wide variety of nostalgia musical acts, and attracts thousands of visitors.

Now, residents have contacted the event's organising committee to outline their concerns before planning starts in earnest for next year's festival.

Threshfield resident, Lesley Brooker, has written to committee chairman, John Benson, on behalf of some of those concerned about the event.

She told the Craven Herald: "I have no problem at all with people who want to dress up and enjoy the 40s music. But I do question whether we need guns, military vehicles and military uniforms on the streets of Grassington.

"I was a small child during the war, but I do have some clear memories of the time. In previous years, the re-enactors seemed to confine themselves to the field, but I and several friends found it distasteful to see military uniforms in the square this year. I was very uncomfortable with it. I don't think it is unreasonable to object to the 'fascist' connotations of German uniforms on our streets."

Mrs Brooker also maintained that friends had been sworn at by someone dressed in a German uniform.

Others had found it difficult to move around the village because of barriers and were subjected to "bully boy" behaviour, Mrs Brooker claimed.

Another Grassington resident, Charles Trevor, has questioned the presence of "military hardware" at the event.

In a letter to the Herald, Mr Trevor wrote: "Some have been particularly saddened by the military hardware and simulated gunfire, and even more by the parading of German military uniforms not unconnected with the murder of millions in concentration camps. I wonder whether it is right to glorify war in a world riven with conflict."

Mr Benson said the points made were valid, but the event is all about "living history".

He added: "We are very careful to vet German uniforms and no Nazi regalia or swastikas are ever allowed.

"The German half-track featured this year had any swastikas on it carefully concealed.

"Every year there is a remembrance service, which is sombre and at which the dead of all nations in the conflict are remembered with a minute's silence and great solemnity and dignity.

"I feel strongly the educational value to our children is one of the important factors in the success of the event."